Understanding Viking Runes

CONTENTS...   1. Introduction to runes 2. History and Origin of the Runes 3. Runes and their meaning 4. Methodology of divination by runes 5. General Glossary

Divination by runes is a very ancient art dating back to the Viking, Germanic, and Nordic peoples of Antiquity. Runes originally formed an alphabet of carved symbols used for writing purposes, but they quickly acquired a spiritual and divinatory dimension, especially for protection or casting spells. Each rune carries a set of meanings and cultural associations, ranging from natural concepts to abstract ideas, which must be handled with respect and conviction.

This divination system is based on the idea that runes, when drawn or cast within a certain ritual framework, can reveal hidden aspects of life, advice, and perspectives on present and future matters. Unlike other forms of divination that focus on predicting the future, rune divination is often used for meditation and reflection, offering spiritual guidance and deep introspection.

1. Introduction to runes

1.1. Definition

Runes are a set of alphabetic symbols used mainly by ancient Germanic and Nordic peoples. These characters, collectively known as the Futhark, named after the first six runes (F, U, Th, A, R, K), originally served as writing. Each rune represents not only a phonetic sound but also an idea or symbolic concept. For example, the Fehu rune symbolizes wealth or prosperity.

1.2. Origin of the runes

Runes appear to have originated around the 1st century AD. Archaeological discoveries of these symbols in Scandinavia and Germania suggest that their origins may have been influenced by Latin or Old Italic alphabets (a group of alphabets used in Italy). Initially, runes were carved on memorial stones, weapons, jewelry, and other valuable objects, serving not only as writing tools but also as symbols of power and protection. 

Over time, runes have undergone significant development and diversification. This evolutionary process reflects the linguistic changes and cultural influences of the different regions where they were used. The transition from the ancient Futhark, more complex and rich in symbols, to the younger Futhark, more simplified, demonstrates the continuous adaptation of the runic system to the needs and contexts of the time.

In ancient societies, runes played a crucial role both culturally and spiritually. They were often associated with magic, divination, and various rituals, holding a prominent place in practices and beliefs. Norse legends, especially those told in the Eddas, reinforce this idea by presenting runes as tools of wisdom and divinatory power. These mythological stories highlight the deep importance of runes in the imagination and spiritual practices of the Norse peoples.

1.3. Context of Rune Usage

Rune divination is a practice based on the idea that these mystical symbols can reveal hidden truths and offer guidance. In this practice, each rune is interpreted uniquely, depending on the question or issue posed. Runes are not only used to predict the future but rather to provide perspective and insight that can help navigate life’s challenges. The methods of casting runes vary, but they generally involve scattering a set of runes and selecting those that seem most relevant to the question asked.

The interpretation of runes is a nuanced art that incorporates aspects of Nature, myths, human emotions, and universal concepts. Each rune has a complex and versatile meaning, and its reading can change depending on its orientation and position. For example, a reversed rune may indicate an obstacle or negative influence, while the same rune in an upright position could have a positive or affirmative meaning.

In the contemporary world, rune divination is embraced by many followers of pagan, neo-pagan, and esoteric spiritualities. It is often used not only as a means of divination but also for meditation, personal reflection, and as a tool for spiritual development, even reassurance during life’s stages. Their use is increasingly popular, especially among people who do not necessarily consider themselves believers, practitioners, or magicians. This is what makes them popular: everyone can feel connected to the runes.

2. History and Origin of the Runes

2.1. Historical Origins of the Runes

The history of runes begins in ancient Europe, extending over Nordic and Germanic lands. These ancient symbols, first appearing around the 1st century, seem to find their origin in influences from Latin or Italic alphabets, although their development and use quickly took on a distinctive character. Runes held deep esoteric meanings and were often employed in ritual contexts or to mark important events. Their simple design, characterized by straight lines easily carved into various materials like stone or wood, made runes particularly suited to the needs of ancient societies.

2.2. Evolution and diversity of runic systems

The world of runes is marked by constant evolution, reflecting the linguistic and cultural changes of the peoples who used them. The Elder Futhark, the earliest system, included 24 symbols. These runes were widely spread among Germanic and Nordic communities, used to inscribe everything from everyday artifacts to commemorative monuments. Each rune in this system had a specific meaning and use, often rooted in the daily life, beliefs, and ritual practices of these peoples.

In the 8th century, the Younger Futhark emerged, reducing the number of runes to 16. This change, centered in Scandinavia, aimed to adapt to linguistic evolutions and simplify the use of runes in daily writing, while preserving their magical and ritual aspects. Besides these two main systems, various local variants appeared, such as the Anglo-Saxon Futhorc and the Marcomannic Futhark. These variants reflected the specific needs of different regions, thus enriching the diversity and complexity of runic writing across Europe.

2.3. Historical use of runes in ancient cultures

In ancient Germanic and Nordic cultures, runes held a central place in society, touching both the sacred and the profane. Runes were commonly used for commemorative inscriptions on runestones, erected to honor kings, heroes, or significant events. These monuments served both as memorials and as testimonies to the power and influence of the people or clans they commemorated.

In rituals, runes were considered powerful tools of magic and divination. They were believed to bring protection, success in battle, or even healing. Their magical use was often the privilege of priests or sages, who understood their deep meanings and used them in divinatory and ceremonial practices.

In daily life, the runes were also present. They were engraved on personal objects, weapons, and tools, serving not only as markers of ownership but also as records of transactions, contracts, or agreements. Mastery of the runes was a sign of knowledge and power, often reserved for a scholarly elite who played a key role in society.

2.4. The legend of Odin and the runes

According to legend, Odin, the most powerful of the Norse gods, discovered the runes after an act of sacrifice and great determination.

The legend says that Odin was thirsty for wisdom and knowledge. He was eager to discover the deepest secrets of the universe. He had first given an eye to Mimir to gain the right to drink from his fountain, a source of knowledge. Never satisfied, he decided, after wounding himself with his own spear, to hang upside down from the Cosmic Tree, Yggdrasil, for nine days and nine nights, in an intense quest for vision and understanding.

During this period of sacrifice, Odin suffered from hunger, thirst, and pain. But his determination was unwavering. Finally, as he was on the verge of total exhaustion, the runes appeared to him. They were engraved on the branches of the Cosmic Tree, like mystical symbols charged with power and meaning.

Odin then grasped the runes and tore them from the tree. In doing so, he acquired their power, becoming the first master of the runes. He then shared this knowledge with the other gods and with mortals who were ready to learn them.

3. The runes and their meaning

3.1. Description of each rune of the Futhark

Here is a brief description of each rune, according to the Elder Futhark:

	Fehu	Abundance, prosperity, material wealth
	Uruz	Strength, courage, health, vitality
	Thurisaz	Defense, resistance, conflict
	Ansuz	Communication, wisdom, revelation
	Raidho	Travel, movement, rhythm
	Kenaz	Creativity, inspiration, knowledge
	Gebo	Gift, sharing, partnership
	Wunjo	Joy, happiness, success
	Hagalaz	Disturbance, unexpected change, crisis
	Nauthiz	Need, constraint, difficulty
	Isa	Stagnation, pause, potential
	Jera	Harvest, results, cycles
	Eihwaz	Endurance, perseverance, protection
	Perhro	Mystery, destiny, luck
	Algiz	Protection, safeguarding, connection
	Sowilo	Success, honor, solar energy
	Tiwaz	Justice, balance, sacrifice
	Berkano	Growth, renewal, fertility
	Ehwaz	Partnership, trust, change
	Mannaz	Humanity, support, community
	Laguz	Water, intuition, emotion, unconscious
	Ingwaz	Potential, fertility, inner growth
	Dagaz	Awakening, clarity, transformations
	Othala	Heritage, inheritance, property

 

3.2. The exception of the Rune of Fate or Wyrd rune

The Viking rune Wyrd, sometimes called the Rune of Fate or White Rune, is not part of the traditional Elder Futhark systems but was added later.

The Wyrd rune represents fate, the unknown, and forces beyond our control. It embodies the idea that, although we can influence our path through our choices and actions, some things remain unpredictable and inevitable. It is often associated with the concept of Wyrd, an Anglo-Saxon term referring to a complex set of beliefs about destiny and fatality. In Norse and Germanic mythology, the Wyrd is seen as a web woven by the Norns, deities who determine the fate of gods and men.

In divination, the appearance of the Wyrd rune in a spread may suggest that the querent is at a point where unknown factors or forces of fate play an important role. It can also indicate that a situation is evolving unpredictably or that one must accept the elements of life that cannot be changed.

3.3. Traditional meanings and interpretations

3.4. Comparisons between different runic systems

While the Elder Futhark is the best-known system, there are other runic variants, each with its own characteristics. The Younger Futhark, for example, has fewer runes and was adapted to reflect linguistic and cultural changes in Scandinavian societies. These differences in runic systems are not limited to the number of runes but also to their interpretations and uses. 

Although it is difficult to list all existing runic systems, here is an overview of the variants:

• Younger Futhark (or Scandinavian Futhark): developed around the 8th century, this runic system contains fewer runes—generally 16. It was adapted to meet linguistic changes and simplify writing in Scandinavia.

• Anglo-Saxon Futhark: this variant, developed in England, evolved from the Elder Futhark. It contains up to 33 runes, incorporating additional symbols to represent the specific sounds of Old English.

• Marcomannic Futhark: used from the 8th to the 9th century, mainly in Bavaria and Austria. This system is known for its unique runes and inscriptions in Old High German.

• Medieval Runes: used from the 12th to the 15th century, these runes evolved from the recent Futhark and were adapted to medieval Nordic languages. They were often used for longer and more complex inscriptions.

• Dalecarlian Runes: found mainly in Dalecarlia, Sweden, these runes are a late form of the runic system dating from the 16th to the 19th century. They show a notable influence from the recent Futhark.

• Staveless Runes: mainly used in Sweden and Norway, these runes are distinguished by the absence of vertical "staves" in their design. They were mainly used for secret or magical inscriptions and are considered the most simplified version of the runic alphabets.

4. Methodology of divination by runes

For those who practice runology, every step of the process, from preparing the runes to interpreting them, is as important as the result itself.

4.1. Preparation and consecration of the runes

Before starting divination, it is essential to prepare and consecrate the runes. This step aims to purify the runes from external influences and align them with the practitioner's energy (thus yours). Preparation often begins with a physical cleaning of the runes, which can be done with salt water, incense smoke, or simply by exposure to Moonlight or Sunlight. Consecration, on the other hand, involves infusing the runes with the practitioner's personal intention and spiritual energy. This can be done through focused meditation, incantations, or by tracing sacred symbols on the runes. This process creates a deep connection between the practitioner and their runes, enhancing the accuracy and relevance of upcoming readings.

4.2. Spreading methods

Once the runes are prepared, the practitioner can proceed with a spread. There are several methods, each suited to specific types of questions or situations. Note that you must fully trust your intuition and focus only on your question during the spread. Ideally, place the runes in a pouch and draw them one by one, then arrange them according to the spread method you have chosen.

4.2.1. Odin's cross spread

The cross spread is a method that offers a detailed insight into a situation. In this spread, five runes are generally used, placed according to your instinct, in the shape of a cross. Each position in the cross has a specific meaning:

1. It represents the current situation or problem.

2. It symbolizes past influences or the foundations of the situation.

3. It indicates future influences or possible outcomes.

4. It represents advice or challenges to overcome.

5. It provides an additional perspective or underlying factors.

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This method is particularly useful for exploring complex questions, offering insight into different aspects and dynamics of the situation. It helps to understand how the past has shaped the present and how current actions can influence the future.

4.2.2. The Three Norns Spread

The three-rune spread is a concise and direct method. Here, three runes are drawn instinctively and arranged in a line:

1. It represents the past and its influences on the current situation.

2. It symbolizes the present, showing the current state or the heart of the issue.

3. It indicates future trends or the likely outcome if the current path is followed.

This spread is ideal for quick guidance and understanding the evolution of a situation or problem. It is particularly effective for obtaining a clear overview and making informed decisions based on understanding the past, present, and future trends.

4.2.3. The Line Spread

The line spread, also called sequential spread, is a flexible and adaptable method. In this spread, a variable number of runes is drawn and placed in a straight line. Each rune can represent a time period (such as a month in the coming year) or a sequential step in the development of a situation or project.

Each rune represents a distinct phase or time period. The first rune may indicate the starting point or current situation, while the following runes show the progressive development of events or energies.

4.2.4. The Celtic Cross Spread

The Celtic cross rune spread is an adaptation of the Celtic cross spread method traditionally used in Tarot. Although this method is more commonly associated with Tarot cards, it can be adapted for rune divination. The Celtic cross spread uses 10 runes and is designed to provide an in-depth analysis of a situation, offering insight into underlying forces, past and future influences, potential challenges, and possible outcomes. This method is rather reserved for experienced practitioners.

1. The current situation: the first rune drawn represents the situation or main question the querent is facing.

2. The obstacle or challenge: the second rune, placed horizontally over the first rune, symbolizes the challenges or obstacles that must be overcome.

3. The base or past influences: the third rune, positioned below, indicates the foundations or past influences affecting the current situation.

4. The recent past: the fourth rune, located on the left, represents recent events or conditions impacting the situation.

5. The near future: the fifth rune, on the right, indicates what is likely to happen in the near future.

6. Advice or the path to follow: the sixth rune, placed above, can provide advice or suggest an action to take.

7. Internal influences: the emotions and thoughts occupying the practitioner

8. External influences: people, friends, close family, colleagues, or events

9. The hopes or fears of the practitioner

10. The final outcome or resolution of the situation

This method, with its complex structure, is particularly useful for detailed analyses and can provide a multidimensional understanding of a situation or question. It is important that the practitioner has a good knowledge of the meanings of the runes and their interpretation in various contexts to make the most of this draw method.

4.2.5. Draw of the Head of the God Mimir

This divination method, involving seven runes, is specially designed to explore the potential evolution of the querent’s fate in relation to a specific situation, often introduced by the question "How will my fate evolve if...". The process is structured into four distinct groups, each providing different perspectives on the question asked.

• Root of the problem (runes 1 and 2): the first two runes drawn form the foundation of the reading. They represent the essential nature of the problem or situation in question. This pair helps to understand the roots and central aspects of the current circumstance, offering insight into what lies at the heart of the matter.

• Interference factors (runes 3 and 4): the second group, composed of the third and fourth runes, highlights external influences or obstacles that could affect the situation. These runes can reveal challenges, external influences, or unforeseen factors that interfere with or complicate the path to resolving the problem.

• Solution elements (runes 5 and 6): the fifth and sixth runes offer advice or possible solutions. This pair suggests approaches, strategies, or attitudes that could be adopted to effectively manage the situation. These runes may indicate actions to take or shifts in perspective needed to move forward.

• Outcome or consequence (rune 7): the seventh and final rune, drawn alone, symbolizes the likely outcome or consequences of how the situation is handled. This rune can provide insight into the result of actions taken or how events might unfold, based on current dynamics.

4.2.6. Thor Oracle Reading

This divination technique, which uses seven runes, is designed to provide a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the querent's current situation and the question asked. Each rune in this spread plays a specific role, contributing to an overall understanding of the situation.

1. The first rune drawn focuses directly on the querent. It reveals personal aspects, qualities, or circumstances that work in their favor. This rune can highlight strengths, talents, or internal resources the querent can use to approach the situation.

2. The second rune relates to the specific circumstances surrounding the question asked. It sheds light on the context or environment in which the question takes place, offering an overview of the immediate factors and conditions influencing the situation.

3. The third rune represents the influences or external forces impacting the situation. It can reveal outside elements, such as people, events, or circumstances, that affect the question or problem, often in unexpected ways or beyond the querent's control.

4. The fourth rune is at the heart of the spread, offering a direct answer or advice related to the question asked. This rune is crucial as it provides the essence of the guidance or solution sought by the querent.

5. Runes five, six, and seven serve to deepen and clarify the answer given by the fourth rune. They provide additional details, nuances, or perspectives that help fully understand the answer and consider the different ways it can manifest or be applied in the querent's life.

4.3. Interpretation of drawn runes

Interpreting drawn runes requires both intuition and understanding of the traditional meanings of these ancient symbols. Each rune has its own meaning, which can be influenced by various factors such as the question asked, the rune's position in the drawing, and its orientation.

Each rune has a basic meaning that can be interpreted through the lens of the question or situation it relates to. 

Finally, in a drawing, the way the runes are read is essential. As a rule, runes are read from left to right, following the order in which they are drawn. However, the orientation of the runes – especially whether they are upright or reversed – can also affect their meaning:

• Upright runes: when a rune is drawn in its upright position, its meaning is generally perceived as positive or direct, indicating a clear manifestation of the energy or quality represented by that rune.

• Reversed runes: a rune drawn upside down can indicate a blockage, a challenge, or a negative aspect of the rune. For example, if "Jera," a rune associated with harvest and positive outcomes, is drawn reversed, it could suggest delays or unsatisfactory results.

5. General Glossary

Here is a small glossary that simply explains the terms of Viking rune divination to facilitate understanding.

• Futhark: Runic alphabet system used by Germanic and Nordic peoples. Divided into Elder Futhark and Younger Futhark.

• Runes: Alphabetic symbols used in runic systems, each having symbolic and divinatory meanings.

• Odin: Main god of Norse mythology, associated with wisdom, magic, poetry, and the discovery of runes.

• Norns: Female deities in Norse mythology who weave the fate of beings.

• Wyrd: Anglo-Saxon concept referring to fate or the inevitable course of life.

• Drawing: The act of selecting one or more runes for divination.

• Reversed Runes: Runes drawn in an inverted position, often interpreted with altered meanings.

• Divination: Practice of seeking inspiration or predicting the future through occult or spiritual means, including runes.